HISD film student wins International World Heritage Film Competition

Harlandale High School student Fatima Aguillon was announced the winner of the international video production competition “My City, Our World Heritage” during the Organizations of World Heritage Cities (OWHC) World Congress in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea on Nov. 2.

Fatima took the top spot in the 14-17 age group, competing against 15 entries from 13 other countries including Spain, Mexico, Turkey, Indonesia and Ecuador. She will receive a $1,000 cash prize from the OWHC.

“I feel shocked that it happened, but I’m so happy because it was an amazing opportunity to represent the city of San Antonio and showcase its culture to the whole world,” Fatima said. “It really motivates me to continue and do more film projects in the future.”

The contest asked young filmmakers living in United Nations Educational, Scientific and CulturalOrganization (UNESCO) World Heritage destinations to create short films that showcase their cities and World Heritage sites. Her three-minute film was shown during the announcement at World Congress.

“Not only does Fatima’s film convey a love for her hometown, but it also shows her incredible talent for storytelling through film,” San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg said. “There is no doubt that San Antonio and its stories are in good hands moving into the future, with a young talent like Fatima leading the way.”

This international recognition comes after Fatima won the local contest of the same name back in August, which also earned her a cash prize of $1,000 and a screening at the Mission Marquee Plaza.

“All eyes were on San Antonio and our World Heritage Missions during OWHC’s World Congress,” said District 3 Councilwoman Rebecca J. Viagran. “I am so proud that Fatima, a Harlandale student, has garnered worldwide recognition for a film that captures the profound beauty and history of her neighborhood. This is a remarkable moment for our city.”